COULD YOU BE THE FAMILY FOR ELLA?

Ella is a seven year old white British girl with a bright smile. She needs lots of love, attention and nurturing.

Likes and dislikes

Ella is active and enjoys running, jumping and climbing with other children. She enjoys walking the dog with her foster carer and can also play quietly alone.

Since coming into care, Ella has been learning about different toys and games and is starting to develop preferences for different activities.

Health and development

Ella's development is delayed in all areas. It is believed that there is no physical cause for this and that the delay is caused by her early experiences.

Ella has made slow but steady progress. She is receiving speech and language therapy and her ability to form words is improving. She needs plenty of nurturing and love in a permanent home to help her reach her full potential.

Behaviour and relationships

The fact that Ella is behind other children her age makes it harder for her to understand what is going on around her. She can seem withdrawn or preoccupied as a result, and needs help in learning how to get to know people.

Ella can become distressed when she is unable to communicate with other people. She needs lots of reassurance that comfort and support is available when she needs it.

Ella has a good relationship with her foster carer and enjoys spending time with her.

Education

Ella attends primary school. She can become very focussed and intent on whichever activity she is engaging in. Ella needs to be assessed for a Statement of Special Educational Needs, which will help her receive extra support to boost her development.

Contact with birth family

It is hoped that Ella's adoptive parents will have twice yearly written contact with her birth mother, and once yearly with her birth father, through the anonymous Letterbox system. Ella may also benefit from meeting up with her birth mother once a year, depending on her needs.

Ella has a sister, who she will benefit from meeting up with four times a year depending on both girls' needs.

Family needed

Ella needs a family that will provide plenty of interaction and understand her emotions. She needs your support in learning about social interaction and play. It is vital that Ella receives plenty of opportunities to develop herself to her full potential.